The story of Tamar and Judah appears in the Book of Genesis, Chapter 38, and is one of the most intriguing narratives in the Bible. It centers on Judah, one of Jacob's sons, and Tamar, the wife of his son. After the death of Judah’s first son, Er, who was married to Tamar, she was given to Judah’s second son, Onan, in accordance with the practice of levirate marriage. Onan, unwilling to produce offspring for his deceased brother, was also struck down by God. Judah, fearing the death of his youngest son, Shelah, hesitated to give him to Tamar, leaving her a widow in her father's house, while promising that eventually, she would marry Shelah. Tamar, realizing that Judah was not fulfilling his promise, decided to act to secure offspring from Judah himself. She disguised herself as a prostitute and sat by the road where Judah would pass. Unaware that she was Tamar, Judah slept with her and promised to send her payment. As a pledge, she took his seal, cord, and staff. Later, when it became known that Tamar was pregnant, she was accused of prostitution, and Judah ordered her to be burned. However, Tamar produced Judah’s seal, cord, and staff, revealing that he was the father of her children. Judah acknowledged her righteousness, saying: "She is more righteous than I" (Genesis 38:26). Tamar gave birth to twins, Perez and Zerah. Perez became one of the ancestors of King David, thus continuing the Messianic lineage. This story addresses themes of justice, morality, family, and the continuity of the lineage, playing a significant role in the biblical history of the Jewish people.
Year: 2012Materials: Oil on canvas stretched on a wooden frame
Size: 170 \ 110 cm
The scene in the Bible: Genesis 38:18